Not a super flexy slender Not a super flexy slender Yoga chick talks "the Power of Movement”

From the very first breath and even before, everything is movement. As children we move endlessly. We crawl, then wobble until we walk, and soon enough we are running and at some point we may even pick up a sport. Movement, movement, movement.

In Yoga, Asana is often front and center. What is less understood is that Yoga is not only about physical movement. Emotions move, neurons move, blood cells move. And this is true not just for Yoga, but for any physical activity. And guess what: hormones move!

Endorphins spike! Your natural painkillers and joy boosters. Maybe you do not feel like moving at first, but once you do, you always feel better.

Serotonin rises! Feeling low, flat, or a bit “meh”? Move. Rhythmic activity and sunlight increase serotonin, which means more smiles for you. You can dance on the kitchen, jump on the bed… anything works.

Dopamine boosts! You might think staying on the couch watching reels will do the trick, but that is a lie. Go to that Yoga class, hit the gym, or simply take a walk. You will feel more satisfied, calm, and confident.

Cortisol lowers (when movement is mindful)! A stroll, a gentle hike, or a flowy Yoga practice can balance stress hormones. Who would not want that?

Insulin sensitivity improves! A little effort today beats a lifetime of needles, does it not?

I could keep listing them, but you see the point. Hormones adore movement, and in return they reward you generously.

And here comes the fascinating part. New neural pathways form when you do something you really do not want to do. You build endurance too. Each time you push through discomfort, the Mid-Cingulate Cortex (MCC) strengthens neural circuits related to effort, persistence, and resilience. As a result, you become less reactive in daily life.

Picture this: you are in Warrior II (yes, that is a Roman two, so say “Warrior two,” not “Warrior ii”… 😏). Your quad is screaming, your back foot is slipping, your shoulders are on fire. If you obsess over the discomfort, you create stress. But if you shift your focus to the breath, you soften into the pose and gain its benefits. In doing so, you reinforce neural pathways tied to empowerment, determination, and autonomy.

All I am really saying is that movement matters. And no, it does not mean you must run a marathon. If the grocery store is nearby, walk instead of driving. If you have spent the whole day on the couch, step outside for ten minutes. You will feel better. If you were gifted a functioning body, why not make the most of it?

Move, move, moveeeee!

P.S. As long as you are not potatoing on the couch, any movement is valid…